Video relay systems have empowered the Deaf and hard of hearing to use video telephones to communicate with friends who are hearing in real-time, with the assistance of a sign language interpreter called a communication assistant.
This technology made significant progress in bridging the communication gaps that can exist between the Deaf and friends who are hearing as well as made communication much more effective. Let’s talk about video relay systems and how they revolutionized communication for the Deaf and hard of hearing.
Understanding Video Relay Systems
Before video relay systems were available, the Deaf and hard of hearing used to rely on telecommunications devices for the Deaf, such as teletypewriters. Teletypewriters, often referred to as TTY, were invented in 1964 and are considered a significant advancement since they broke the telephone communication barrier for the Deaf by allowing a typewritten conversation to be held over a phone line.
Video relay systems were first used in Sweden in the 1990s and were adopted by the United States in the early 2000s to give the Deaf and hard of hearing a means to communicate in real-time through an interpreter without the delay in communication normally associated with teletypewriters. Often referred to as VRS, video relay systems work by linking a trained interpreter to the user and the person they are calling so that they can translate what the user is signing and what the person they are calling is saying. This allows conversations to flow much more easily and faster than with the older TTY systems.
Related: Why Do Deaf People Communicate Differently from Hearing People?
Challenges in Communication for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
The Deaf and hard of hearing face significant challenges when communicating, especially when it comes to using the phone to do so. The phone was originally designed specifically as a way to vocally communicate so it tends to rely on auditory signals such as a dial tone to let you know that the line is available, ringing to alert users to incoming calls, and even automated voices asking you to kindly leave a voice message. This can require the Deaf and hard of hearing to stay close to a signaler if they are expecting an important call so that they do not miss it.
There also can be challenges when communicating with healthcare providers or first responders during emergencies since it can be difficult to use visual and non-verbal methods of communication in these situations. This can lead to misunderstandings at the doctor’s office about medication, conditions, and treatment options that you may have. In emergency situations, especially in natural disasters that can disable infrastructure such as broadband internet, the Deaf and hard of hearing can have difficulty contacting emergency services.
Related: Top Ways to Communicate with a Deaf Person
The Role of Video Relay Systems in Empowering Communication
Video relay systems did much more than make communication easier and faster for the Deaf and hard of hearing, they also empowered the community by allowing them to use their preferred language, sign language, during video calls. Being able to communicate in the way that they feel most comfortable allows them to have confidence when expressing themselves. This is especially important for job interview calls where a candidate needs to articulately explain their qualifications and skills to the employer.
Video relay systems also provide access to professional sign language interpreters. These interpreters are fluent in sign language and are experts at flowing between sign and spoken language, which facilitates quick and effective communication between both parties. This is especially important for customer service interactions so that the Deaf and hard of hearing can explain their wants and needs to the agent.
Another example where video relay systems shine is for emergencies where rapid and accurate communication is needed. Contacting emergency services is usually an extremely stressful situation so being able to communicate in the way you feel most comfortable and effectively can help reduce some of the anxiety of the situation.
Although video relay systems used to require a computer with a webcam to make calls, the invention of smartphones with webcams makes it possible to make a call using a VRS anywhere where they have mobile service.
Find out more about how the Deaf community is using the Bridg’d app to enhance their communication. Learn more about us here.
Benefits of Video Relay Systems for the Deaf Community
The implementation of video relay systems for the Deaf community has done more than facilitate communication. Once video relay systems became available to the public, they significantly improved access to education, employment, and healthcare for the Deaf and hard of hearing.
One of the educational tools that we have seen become mainstream in recent years is remote learning. Video relay systems make access to remote learning possible for the Deaf and hard of hearing by giving them equal access to lectures, discussions, and group activities.
Video relay systems helped break down communication barriers to make the workplace more accessible for the Deaf. This greatly improved workplace communication since VRS made conversing with coworkers and clients much easier. VRS also opened up remote work opportunities for the Deaf and hard of hearing and helped to greatly expand and improve opportunities for work.
VRS also empowered the Deaf community to easily call to schedule medical appointments and communicate with healthcare providers, which not only increases their access to healthcare but also gives them more control over their health.
Related: Discover the Latest Communication Devices for Deaf Individuals
Implementing VRS: Tips and Best Practices
Implementing VRS into your life is quick and easy but there are a few things that you can do to make the process just a bit more smoother. Make sure that your VRS equipment, whether it is your smartphone or a computer with a webcam, is in good working order and that you have closed out any applications that can slow your device down. Having a good working internet connection that is fast will also help you reduce any lag and get the most out of your call.
If you want to test out the next generation of technology that will enhance the Deaf community’s ability to communicate with friends who are hearing, check out our free 7-day trial.
Collaboration and Future Developments
Advances in technology as well as feedback from the Deaf community will go a long way in shaping the future of video relay systems. Smartphone technology in particular has been showing a significant amount of potential in enhancing communication accessibility.
